USB Port Blockout Device Using Inverted Locking Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB port lock devices are not universally compatible and fail to provide a secure, tamper-resistant blockout solution as they do not engage all USB ports effectively, leaving them vulnerable to contamination, damage, or misuse when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A blockout device comprising a locking member with teeth that engage the USB port, a body member with a channel, and a shell that securely locks the USB port until removal with a custom tool, ensuring compatibility and security across various USB port designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior USB port lock devices engage the openings on the top side of the USB port, then the port is protected from contamination and misuse, but the devices are not compatible with all USB ports since the top side doesn't always include openings
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of engaging the USB port from the top side as in prior devices, this invention inverts the approach by inserting the locking member from the bottom side of the USB port. The locking member engages contact slots on the contact plate from below, providing universal compatibility while maintaining secure protection.
2Reliability
If prior lock devices cover the USB port, then the port is protected, but the devices fail to provide a tamper resistant blockout solution that securely locks all USB ports
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed with teeth that engage contact slots common to all USB port types, making the device universally compatible. The same basic structure works across different USB port variations while maintaining tamper-resistant security features.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary element that bridges the removal tool and the USB port contact plate. The teeth on the locking member engage the contact slots, providing a secure mechanical connection that prevents unauthorized removal while allowing controlled access through the removal tool.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is designed to be tamper resistant, then security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blockout device is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking member with teeth for engagement, a body member with a channel to guide insertion, and a shell for protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply while contributing to overall tamper resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member's teeth automatically engage with the contact slots upon insertion, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional complex mechanisms. The design uses the existing USB port structure to achieve security, reducing the need for extra components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A blockout device for a USB port is disclosed. The blockout device prevents contamination, damage or misuse of the USB port when not in use. The blockout device includes a locking member, a body member and a shell. The locking member has a bottom and a top. The bottom of the locking member includes a plurality of teeth for engaging the USB port. The body member has a top, a bottom and sides defining a channel therein. The locking member is positioned within the channel of the body. The shell has a cavity that receives the locking member and the body member. The locking member and the body member are positioned within the cavity of the shell when the blockout device is installed in the USB port.